It was an eventful World Cup. Some saying the best of all time. In terms of quality, I would not go that far. But it certainly had its incidents. From Colombia’s Zuniga kung fu style kick on Neymar, to Suarez’s chomp on Chiellini, to powerhouse Brazil being humiliated by Germany, to minnow Costa Rica exceeding all expectations. There’s no doubt about the magnitude of talking points it created.

And it had some great goals also. Not only, Götze’s sublime World Cup extra-time winner against Argentina but more than honorary mentions must go to David Luiz’s free kick versus Colombia, Lionel Messi’s double against Nigeria & Iran and Robin Van Persie self-admitted “best goal of his career”. It was Golden Boot winner James Rodríguez who was the official winner with his volley effort that will go down as one of the best ever goals in a World Cup.

“Messi came into this tournament under enormous pressure, with everyone saying he needed to perform in the World Cup, but he has been phenomenal. His free kick against Nigeria was just a classic strike. We haven’t seen anyone quite like him in the game since Diego Maradona.” — Gary Lineker, BBC TV
Since then, Germany have returned with the trophy (and damaging it along the way!). Their players have received more transfer speculation than any other and as rightful winners, deservedly so. Schweinsteiger, Lahm, Neuer and Muller were all incredible throughout the competition. If readers are looking for ideas to compare odds and get the best bonus bets, here are our 5 top players that we believe will have the most impact on their respective teams this coming season.
David Ospina, Arsenal
For years Arsenal have had goalkeeping problems. With Arsene Wenger’s investing in Frenchman, Debuchy, and more notably Chilean, Alexis Sanchez, I believe that a reliable keeper between the sticks will benefit them most. David Ospina is a shot stopper and collects crosses comfortably. He successfully claimed more than any other goalkeeper in Brazil. This is a genuine bargain buy.

Ron Vlaar, Aston Villa
If Ron Vlaar remains at Aston Villa it will be a huge surprise. With one year left on his contract, I can see him leaving the midlands club. But if Lambert and Keane can manage to hold onto him, I have no doubt he will be monumental for them in 2014/2015. He was my defensive pick from The World Cup.
James Rodriguez, Real Madrid
The sensation of the World Cup has completed the biggest move of the summer so far in signing for Real Madrid. He follows none other than German star Toni Kroos and joins a frontline already consisting of Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale (I expect Benzema to leave). This star studded lineup surely must worry rivals Barcelona.While all these players can score and create, there is not one ‘out and out’ goalscorer. Compare odds to see who will be top goal scorer or top assists.

Mat Hummels, Dortmund
Hummels shone in the knockout stage of the World Cup. He was scoring goals and marshaling his defence. Formerly blamed for Germany’s Euro 2012 semi-final exit, the Dortmund defender has shown strength in character and it is clear why Van Gaal is desperate for his signature at Manchester United. They need someone like him to put stability back into their once-upon-a-time mean defence.

“If that’s not a bullsh*t story, I’ll eat a broomstick.”
Dortmund Manager Klopp advising on not to bet on Mat Hummels moving to Manchester United!  Ha Ha

Javier Mascherano, Barcelona
This was my favourite player from the World Cup. He was Argentina’s real leader. He was the man urging his teammates on and making last ditch tackles. With Suarez joining Messi and Neymar in attack at Barcelona and arguably creating an unbalanced lineup, Mascherano will again be key to the Catalan’s attempt to re-capture Spain top spot.

If you are looking to place a bet based on the aftermath performance of some of the World Cup’s key players, then consider carefully where to place bookmaker bonus bets. What I have written here are just some of the movements this summer as a result of the World Cup and it offers a basis for making predictions. This time next month will tell much more as to where teams are at and how they are shaping up for 2014/2015. Check back here for more expert tips.   For now, the best bonuses can be found at Let’s Compare Bets.